Pre-Startup Package

Pre-Startup Package

Supports would-be entrepreneurs in Korea with commercialization guidance and early innovation funding before formal company launch.

The Pre-Startup Package (예비창업패키지) is an annual program administered by the Korea Institute of Startup and Entrepreneurship Development (KISED) that provides commercialization funding to pre-entrepreneurs — individuals with technology-based startup ideas who have not yet registered a company. The 2025 cycle allocated a total budget of KRW 49 billion to support approximately 748 recipients, with per-project awards reaching up to KRW 100 million and an average award of around KRW 50 million. Applications for the 2025 cycle opened around February through the K-Startup portal (www.k-startup.go.kr), where applicants submit a business plan and supporting documentation.

Funded activities cover four core areas: prototype development, intellectual property acquisition, business model advancement, and minimum viable product development. Beyond the direct commercialization grant, recipients gain access to mentoring and management consulting support delivered through KISED's national network. The program is open only to individuals who do not yet hold a registered business; any applicant with an existing company is ineligible. No minimum team size or prior revenue is required, though the idea must be technology-based.

The Pre-Startup Package feeds directly into KISED's broader startup ladder: successful participants who incorporate may subsequently apply to the Early-Stage Startup Package, which supports companies up to three years old. Selection follows a competitive evaluation of the business plan and the applicant's preparedness for commercialization. The 2025 cycle is closed; the 2026 cycle is expected to open again around February 2026 via the same K-Startup portal. KISED's Pre and Early-stage Startup Team can be reached at +82-44-410-1803 through 1808 for program inquiries.